Allemagne, Vallée du Rhin, vers 1300 Dieu de la Trinité

Very good condition overall with some minor wear and losses to the original polychromy at several places, consistent with age and handling. His nose appears to have been slightly restored, thumb and index of both hands appear to be missing. The back of the sculpture is hollowed out, with three drilling holes, one to the back of his head. This sculpture is an element of an altarpiece like the one in the Metropolitain Museum in New York. Very fine and rare sculpture.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Ce Dieu de la Trinité était certainement l'élément central d'un retable en forme de Vierge à l'Enfant. Il devait prendre place en son sein, dissimulé par deux portes ouvrant verticalement de la naissance du cou de la Vierge jusqu'à la base du trône. Ce type particulier de retable anthropomorphe était dédié au miracle de l'incarnation de Dieu et à la glorification de la sainte Trinité. L'intérieur des volets était orné de scènes peintes relatant l'enfance du Christ. Un retable renfermant une figure de la Trinité similaire à la nôtre est visible au Metropolitan Museum (don de J. Pierpont Morgan, inv. 17.190.185).